After its introduction last year, the Audi A7 picks up a few helpful features for 2013. Start-stop technology has been introduced to help fuel economy and a rear bench seat is available, allowing rear seat occupants to sit three abreast. Active Lane Assist and Corner View are now available as part of the Innovation Package.

From a design standpoint, the new Audi A7 is a standout in the market; while competitors such as the Acura ZDX and BMW 5-Series GranTurismo come close, the A7 is the least "SUV" in this segment. Inside, the A7 is a paragon of great design, as its cabin feels lush and detailed without being functionally complex. Even so, the A7 is very roomy, with enough space for adults in back.
Technologically, the A7 is also near the head of its class. The Google Earth mapping with live updates feels a full generation ahead of the systems in many rival models; and the so-called MMI touch system--bringing a fingertip scratch pad that allows data entry without looking away from the road or focusing on a screen-based pointer, is also revolutionary.